Method for the treatment of fatty liver disease

ABSTRACT

The invention provides a method of treating, inhibiting and/or preventing fatty liver disease in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering an effective amount of a cyclohexenone compound of the following formula (I) to said patient,

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method for the treatment of fattyliver disease, and more particularly, to a method of administering acyclohexenone compound.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Fatty liver refers to a pathogenic condition where fat comprises morethan 5% of the total weight of the liver. Fatty liver andsteatohepatitis are frequently found in people who intake excessivealcohols and who have obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, etc.Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) refers to a wide spectrum ofliver disease ranging from simple fatty liver (steatosis), tononalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), to cirrhosis (irreversible,advanced scarring of the liver). All of the stages of NAFLD have incommon the accumulation of fat (fatty infiltration) in the liver cells(hepatocytes). In NASH, the fat accumulation is associated with varyingdegrees of inflammation (hepatitis) and scarring (fibrosis) of theliver. The NAFLD spectrum is thought to begin with and progress from itssimplest stage, called simple fatty liver (steatosis). That is, fattyliver is the initial abnormality in the spectrum of NAFLD. Simple fattyliver involves just the accumulation of fat in the liver cells with noinflammation or scarring. The fat is actually composed of a particulartype of fat (triglyceride) that accumulates within the liver cells.Fatty liver is a harmless (benign) condition. The next stage and degreeof severity in the NAFLD spectrum is NASH. As mentioned, NASH involvesthe accumulation of fat in the liver cells as well as inflammation ofthe liver. The inflammatory cells can destroy the liver cells(hepatocellular necrosis). In the terms “steatohepatitis” and“steatonecrosis”, steato refers to fatty infiltration, hepatitis refersto inflammation in the liver, and necrosis refers to destroyed livercells. Strong evidence suggests that NASH, in contrast to simple fattyliver, is not a harmless condition. This means that NASH can ultimatelylead to scarring of the liver (fibrosis) and then irreversible, advancedscarring (cirrhosis). Cirrhosis that is caused by NASH is the last andmost severe stage in the NAFLD spectrum.

There are few therapeutically effective drugs for treating fatty liver.Exercise and controlled diet are recommended, but these are not soeffective in treating fatty liver. Accordingly, development of a fattyliver treatment having superior effect and safety with no adversereactions is in need.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a method of treating, inhibiting and/orpreventing fatty liver disease in a patient in need thereof, comprisingadministering an effective amount of a cyclohexenone compound of theformula (I) as described herein to said patient. In an exemplaryembodiment, the cyclohexenone compound is administered with a secondingredient.

In one aspect provides methods of treating, inhibiting and/or preventingfatty liver disease in a patient in need thereof, comprisingadministering an effective amount of a cyclohexenone compound of thefollowing formula (I) to said patient,

-   -   wherein each of X and Y independently is oxygen, NR₅ or sulfur;    -   R is a hydrogen or C(═O)C₁-C₈alkyl;    -   each of R₁, R₂ and R₃ independently is a hydrogen, methyl or        (CH₂)_(m)—CH₃;    -   R₄ is NR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅, C(═O)R₅, C(═O)NR₅R₆,        halogen, 5 or 6-membered lactone, C₁-C₈alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl,        C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, glucosyl, wherein the 5 or 6-membered        lactone, C₁-C₈alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl, C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, and        glucosyl are optionally substituted with one or more        substituents selected from NR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅,        C(═O)R₅, C(═O)NR₅R₆, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₂-C₈ alkynyl,        C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, and C₁-C₈ haloalkyl;    -   each of R₅ and R₆ is independently a hydrogen or C₁-C₈alkyl;    -   R₇ is a C₁-C₈alkyl, OR₅ or NR₅R₆;    -   m=1-12; and    -   n=1-12; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, metabolite,        solvate or prodrug thereof.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each individual publication, patent, or patent application wasspecifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1(A-D) shows representative photomicrographs of HE-stained sectionsof livers of Group A (vehicle control) and Group B (test compound,Compound 1) in a Fatty Liver Disease model. FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B) showHE-stained sections of livers of Group A at an enlargement ratio of 50×enlargement ratio of 200×, respectively. FIGS. 1(C) and 1(D) showHE-stained sections of livers of Group B at an enlargement ratio of 50×enlargement ratio of 200×.

FIG. 2(A-D) shows representative photomicrographs of Sirius-red stainedsections of livers of Group A and Group B Fatty Liver Disease model.FIGS. 2(A) and 2(B) show Sirius-red stained sections of livers of GroupA at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 200×,respectively. FIGS. 2(C) and 2(D) show Sirius-red stained sections oflivers of Group B at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of200×.

FIG. 3(A-D) shows representative photomicrographs of collagen Type3-immunostained sections of livers of Group A and Group B Fatty LiverDisease model. FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B) show collagen Type 3-immunostainedsections of livers of Group A at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargementratio of 400×, respectively. FIGS. 3(C) and 3(D) show Sirius-red stainedsections of livers of Group B at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargementratio of 400×.

FIG. 4 shows diagrams of the whole blood glucose concentration (mg/dL)of Group A and Group B.

FIG. 5 shows diagrams of the plasma triglyceride concentration (mg/dL)of Group A and Group B.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 respectively show diagrams of plasma AST and plasmaALT concentration (U/dL) of Group A and Group B.

FIG. 8(A-D) shows representative photomicrographs of HE-stained sectionsof livers of Group A and Group B regarding fibrosis of steatohepatitisliver cells. FIGS. 8(A) and 8(B) show HE-stained sections of livers ofGroup A at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 200×,respectively. FIGS. 8(C) and 8(D) show HE-stained sections of livers ofGroup B at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 200×.

FIG. 9(A-D) shows representative photomicrographs of Sirius-red stainedsections of livers of Group A and Group B regarding fibrosis ofsteatohepatitis liver cells. FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B) show Sirius-red stainedsections of livers of Group A at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargementratio of 200×, respectively. FIGS. 9(C) and 9(D) show Sirius-red stainedsections of livers of Group B at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargementratio of 200×.

FIG. 10(A-D) shows representative photomicrographs of collagen Type3-immunostained sections of livers of Group A and Group B regardingfibrosis of steatohepatitis liver cells. FIGS. 10(A) and 10(B) showcollagen Type 3-immunostained sections of livers of Group A at anenlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 400×, respectively. FIGS.10(C) and 10(D) show Sirius-red stained sections of livers of Group B atan enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 400×.

FIG. 11 shows diagrams of the whole blood glucose concentration (mg/dL)of Group A and Group B.

FIG. 12 shows diagrams of the plasma triglyceride concentration (mg/dL)of Group A and Group B.

FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 respectively show diagrams of plasma AST and plasmaALT concentration (U/dL) of Group A and Group B.

FIG. 15(A-F) shows representative photomicrographs of HE-stainedsections of livers in a fatty liver condition assay in Group A (vehiclecontrol), Group B (test compound & ergosterol) and Group C (testcompound alone). FIGS. 15(A) and 15(B) show HE-stained sections oflivers of Group A at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of200×, respectively. FIGS. 15(C) and 15(D) show HE-stained sections oflivers of Group B at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of200×. FIGS. 15(E) and 15(F) show HE-stained sections of livers of GroupC at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 200×.

FIG. 16(A-F) shows representative photomicrographs of Sirius-red stainedof livers from Group A to Group C. FIGS. 16(A) and 16(B) show Sirius-redstained sections of livers of Group A at an enlargement ratio of 50×enlargement ratio of 200×, respectively. FIGS. 16(C) and 16(D) showSirius-red stained sections of livers of Group B at an enlargement ratioof 50× enlargement ratio of 200×. FIGS. 16(E) and 16(F) show Sirius-redstained sections of livers of Group C at an enlargement ratio of 50×enlargement ratio of 200×.

FIG. 17(A-F) shows representative photomicrographs of collagen Type3-immunostained sections of livers from Group A to Group C. FIGS. 17(A)and 17(B) show collagen Type 3-immunostained sections of livers of GroupA at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 400×,respectively. FIGS. 17(C) and 17(D) show Sirius-red stained sections oflivers of Group B at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of400×. FIGS. 17(E) and 17(E) show Sirius-red stained sections of liversof Group C at an enlargement ratio of 50× enlargement ratio of 400×.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In some embodiments, the invention surprisingly found that cyclohexenonecompounds described herein effectively treat, inhibit and/or preventfatty liver disease.

The terms “a” and “an” refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to atleast one) of the grammatical object of the article.

The term “treat,” “treatment” or “treating” means reducing thefrequency, extent, severity and/or duration with which symptoms of fattyliver disease are experienced by a patient.

The term “prevent,” “prevention” or “preventing” means inhibition, riskreduction, reducing the onset of or the averting of symptoms associatedwith fatty liver disease.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable salt” refers to those salts whichretain the biological effectiveness and properties of the free bases andwhich are obtained by reaction with inorganic or organic acids such ashydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid,phosphoric acid, methanesulfonic acid, ethanesulfonic acid,p-toluenesulfonic acid, salicylic acid, malic acid, maleic acid,succinic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, and the like.

The term “effective amount” means an amount of the compound describedherein effective to treat, inhibit and/or prevent fatty liver diseases.For example, the effective amount of the compound described hereinreduces the number of fat cells; reduces the liver size; inhibits (i.e.,slow to some extent and preferably stop) fatty cell infiltration;inhibits (i.e., slows at least to some extent and preferably stops)inflammation (hepatitis), scarring (cirrhosis) or necrosis; and/orrelieves to some extent one or more of the symptoms associated with thedisease.

Plants and mushrooms are a valuable resource for the discovery anddevelopment of novel, naturally derived agents to treat cancer. Antrodiacamphorata is also called Chang-Zhi, Niu Chang-Gu, red camphor mushroomand the like, which is a perennial mushroom belonging to the orderAphyllophorales, the family Polyporaceae. It is an endemic species inTaiwan growing on the inner rotten heart wood wall of Cinnamomumkanehirae Hay. C. kanehirai Hay is rarely distributed and being overcutunlawfully, which makes A. camphorata growing inside the tree in thewild became even rare. The price of A. camphorata is very expensive dueto the extremely slow growth rate of natural A. camphorata that onlygrows between Junes to October. Traditionally, A. camphorata is used asa Chinese remedy for food, alcohol, and drug intoxication, diarrhea,abdominal pain, hypertension, skin itches, and liver cancer.Triterpenoids are the most studied component among the numerouscompositions of A. camphorata.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,385,088 is directed to a novel compound and use thereof,in particular to Antroquinonol B and Antroquinonol C isolated from A.camphorata extracts which effectively inhibit the growth of certaincancer cells. U.S. Pat. No. 7,342,137 provides cyclohexenone compoundsand their uses in tumor growth inhibition, which is an extract isolatedand purified from A. camphorate, in particular to4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enone.Furthermore, several uses of the compound,4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enonewere developed. U.S. Pat. No. 7,411,003 discloses the use of4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enonein inhibiting HBV. U.S. Pat. No. 7,456,225 discloses the use of4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enonein liver protection such as alleviating liver injury and fibrosisinduced by chemicals and reduces the serum levels of alanineaminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). U.S. Pat.No. 7,468,392 discloses the use of4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6-10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enonein delaying fatigue. U.S. Pat. No. 7,501,454 relates to the use of4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl-)-cyclohex-2-enonein treating autoimmune diseases. U.S. Pat. No. 8,236,860 provides theuse of4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5-(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodea-2,6,10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enonein inhibiting the survival of pancreatic cancer cells. US 20110060055,US 20110060056, US 20110060057, US 20110060058 and US 20110060059disclose the use of4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl-)-cyclohex-2-enonein inhibiting the survival of lymphoma, gastric cancer, skin cancer,ovarian cancer and bladder cancer cells, respectively.

However, none of prior references teaches and suggests that theabove-mentioned cyclohexenone compound can be used in the treatmentand/or prevention of fatty liver diseases, in particular NAFLD.

Accordingly, the invention provides a method of treating, inhibitingand/or preventing fatty liver diseases in a patient in need thereof,comprising administering an effective amount of a cyclohexenone compoundof the following formula (I) to said patient,

wherein each of X and Y independently is oxygen, NR₅ or sulfur;R is a hydrogen or C(═O)C₁-C₈alkyl;each of R₁, R₂ and R₃ independently is a hydrogen, methyl or(CH₂)_(m)—CH₃;R₄ is NR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅, C(═O)R₅, C(═O)NR₅R₆, halogen, 5 or6-membered lactone, C₁-C₈alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl, C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl,glucosyl, wherein the 5 or 6-membered lactone, C₁-C₈alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl,C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, and glucosyl are optionally substituted with one ormore substituents selected from NR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅, C(═O)R₅,C(═O)NR₅R₆, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₂-C₈ alkynyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl,and C₁-C₈ haloalkyl;each of R₅ and R₆ is independently a hydrogen or C₁-C₈alkyl;R₇ is a C₁-C₈alkyl, OR₅ or NR₅R₆;m=1-12; andn=1-12; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, metabolite, solvate orprodrug thereof.

In some embodiments, the fatty liver diseases are the primary fattyliver diseases or the secondary fatty liver diseases. In someembodiments, the secondary fatty liver disease is alcohol liver disease,fatty liver associated with chronic hepatitis infection, total parentalnutrition (TPN), Reye's Syndrome, gastrointestinal disorders, orgastroparesis and irritable bowel (IBS) disorders. In certainembodiments, the fatty liver disease is cirrhosis or fibrosis.

In some embodiments, the cyclohexenone compound having the followingstructure

is prepared synthetically or semi-synthetically from any suitablestarting material. In other embodiments, the cyclohexenone compound isprepared by fermentation, or the like. For example, Compound 1 (alsoknown as Antroquinonol™ or “Antroq”) or Compound 3, in some instances,is prepared from 4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methylcyclohexa-2,5-dienone.The non-limited exemplary compounds are illustrated below.

In other embodiments, the cyclohexenone compound having the structure

is isolated from the organic solvent extracts of A. camphorata. In someembodiments, the organic solvent is selected from alcohols (e.g.,methanol, ethanol, propanol, or the like), esters (e.g., methyl acetate,ethyl acetate, or the like), alkanes (e.g., pentane, hexane, heptane, orthe like), halogenated alkanes (e.g., chloromethane, chloroethane,chloroform, methylene chloride, or the like), and the like. For example,exemplary Compounds 1-7 are isolated from organic solvent extracts. Incertain embodiments, the organic solvent is alcohol. In certainembodiments, the alcohol is ethanol. In some embodiments, thecyclohexenone compound is isolated from the aqueous extracts of A.camphorata.

In some embodiments, R is a hydrogen, C(═O)C₃H₈, C(═O)C₂H₅, or C(═O)CH₃.In some embodiments, R₁ is a hydrogen or methyl. In certain embodiments,R₂ is a hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, pentyl or hexyl. In someembodiments, R₃ is a hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, pentyl orhexyl. In some embodiments, R₄ is halogen, NH₂, NHCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, OCH₃,OC₂H₅, C(═O)CH₃, C(═O)C₂H₅, C(═O)OCH₃, C(═O)OC₂H₅, C(═O)NHCH₃,C(═O)NHC₂H₅, C(═O)NH₂, OC(═O)CH₃, OC(═O)C₂H₅, OC(═O)OCH₃, OC(═O)OC₂H₅,OC(═O)NHCH₃, OC(═O)NHC₂H₅, or OC(═O)NH₂. In some embodiments, R₄ isC₂H₅C(CH₃)₂OH, C₂H₅C(CH₃)₂OCH₃, CH₂COOH, C₂H₅COOH, CH₂OH, C₂H₅OH, CH₂Ph,C₂H₅Ph, CH₂CH═C(CH₃)(CHO), CH₂CH═C(CH₃)(C(═O)CH₃), 5 or 6-memberedlactone, C₁-C₈alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl, C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, and glucosyl,wherein the 5 or 6-membered lactone, C₁-C₈alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl,C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, and glucosyl are optionally substituted with one ormore substituents selected from NR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅, C(═O)R₅,C(═O)NR₅R₆, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₂-C₈ alkynyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl,and C₁-C₈ haloalkyl. In certain embodiments, R₄ is CH₂CH═C(CH₃)₂. Incertain embodiments, the compound is

According to the invention, in some embodiments, the compounds providedherein are used in the treatment, inhibition and/or prevention of fattyliver disease. Examples of fatty liver diseases or liver disordersinclude the primary fatty liver diseases NAFLD and NASH and thesecondary fatty liver diseases (e.g., alcoholic liver disease (ALD),fatty liver associated with chronic hepatitis infection, total parentalnutrition (TPN), Reye's Syndrome, and gastrointestinal disorders such asIntestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (IBO), gastroparesis, irritable bowel(IBS) disorders, and the like). These examples are listed as examplesonly and the list is not intended to limit the treatment to thesediseases.

Combination Treatments

In some embodiments, therapeutically-effective dosages vary when thedrugs are used in treatment combinations. Combination treatment furtherincludes periodic treatments that start and stop at various times toassist with the clinical management of the patient. For combinationtherapies described herein, dosages of the co-administered compoundsvary depending on the type of co-drug employed, on the specific drugemployed, on the disease, disorder, or condition being treated and soforth.

It is understood that in some embodiments, the dosage regimen to treat,prevent, or ameliorate the condition(s) for which relief is sought, ismodified in accordance with a variety of factors. These factors includethe disorder from which the subject suffers, as well as the age, weight,sex, diet, and medical condition of the subject. Thus, in otherembodiments, the dosage regimen actually employed varies widely andtherefore deviates from the dosage regimens set forth herein.

Combinations of compounds (i.e., the cyclohexenone compound describedherein) with other fatty liver disease therapeutic agents are intendedto be covered. In some embodiments, examples of fatty liver diseasetherapeutic agents include, but are not limited to, the following:ergosterol, vitamin E, selenium, betaine, insulin sensitizers (e.g.,Metformin, Pioglitazone, Rosiglitazone, Thiazolidinediones, or thelike), and statins, or the like.

The combinations of the cyclohexenone compounds and other fatty liverdisease therapeutic agents described herein encompass additionaltherapies and treatment regimens with other agents in some embodiments.Such additional therapies and treatment regimens include another fattyliver disease therapy in some embodiments. Alternatively, in otherembodiments, additional therapies and treatment regimens include otheragents used to treat adjunct conditions associated with fatty liverdisease or a side effect from such agent in the combination therapy. Infurther embodiments, adjuvants or enhancers are administered with acombination therapy described herein.

In some embodiment, the cyclohexenone compound of the invention isadministered with a second ingredient. According to the invention, thesecond ingredient is ergosterol. The amounts of the cyclohexenonecompound in combination with ergosterol range from 50% (w/w) to 90%(w/w) and 50% (w/w) to 10% (w/w), respectively. In general, thecompositions described herein and, in embodiments where combinationaltherapy is employed based on the mode of action described herein, otheragents do not have to be administered in the same pharmaceuticalcomposition, and in some embodiments, because of different physical andchemical characteristics, are administered by different routes. In someembodiments, the initial administration is made according to establishedprotocols, and then, based upon the observed effects, the dosage, modesof administration and times of administration is modified by the skilledclinician.

In some embodiments, the compounds provided herein are administered byany convenient route, including oral, parenteral, subcutaneous,intravenous, intramuscular, intra peritoneal, or transdermal. The dosageadministered depends upon the age, health, and weight of the recipient,kind of concurrent treatment, if any, and the nature of the effectdesired.

In some embodiments, for administration, the compounds provided hereinare mixed with one or more physiologically acceptable carrierscomprising excipients and auxiliaries, which facilitate processing ofthe active compounds into preparations which are used pharmaceutically.Proper formulation is dependent upon the route of administration chosen.

In some embodiments, for oral administration, the compounds providedherein are formulated as discrete units such as capsules, cachets ortablets each containing a predetermined amount of the compound of theinvention; as a powder or granules; as solution or a suspension in anaqueous liquid or a non-aqueous liquid; or as an oil-in-water liquidemulsion or a water-in-oil liquid emulsion.

In some embodiments, for injection, the compounds provided herein areformulated in aqueous solutions, preferably in physiologicallycompatible buffers such as Hank's solution, Ringer's solution, orphysiological saline buffer. For transmucosal administration, penetrantsappropriate to the barrier to be permeated are used in the formulation.Such penetrants, for example polyethylene glycol, are generally known inthe art. In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions which are usedorally, include push-fit capsules.

For administration by inhalation, the molecules for use according to thepresent invention are conveniently delivered in the form of an aerosolspray presentation from a pressurized pack or a nebulizer with the useof a suitable propellant, e.g., dichlorodifluoromethane,trichlorofluoromethane, dichloro-tetrafluoroethane or carbon dioxide. Inthe case of a pressurized aerosol, the dosage unit is determined byproviding a valve to deliver a metered amount in some embodiments.Capsules and cartridges of, e.g., gelatin for use in an inhaler orinsufflator, is formulated containing a powder mix of the polypeptideand a suitable powder base such as lactose or starch in someembodiments.

The dose will be determined by the activity of the compound produced andthe condition of the subject, as well as the body weight or surface areaof the subject to be treated. The size of the dose and the dosingregiment also will be determined by the existence, nature, and extent ofany adverse side effects that accompany the administration of aparticular compound in a particular subject. In determining theeffective amount of the compound to be administered, the physician needsto evaluate circulating plasma levels, toxicity, and progression of thedisease.

EXAMPLE Example 1 Isolation of Exemplary Cyclohexenone Compounds

100 g of mycelia, fruiting bodies or mixture of both from A. camphoratawere placed into a flask. A proper amount of water and alcohol (70-100%alcohol solution) was added into the flask and were stirred at 20-25degrees Celsius (° C.) for at least 1 hour. The solution was filteredthrough a filter and a 0.45 μm (micrometer) membrane and the filtratewas collected as the extract. The filtrate of A. camphorata wassubjected to a High Performance Liquid chromatography (HPLC). The HPLCwas performed using a RP18 column, methanol (A) and 0.1˜0.5% acetic acid(B) as the mobile phase, with gradient of 0˜10 min in 95%˜20% B, 10-20min in 20%˜10% B, 20˜35 min in 10%˜10% B, 35˜40 min in 10%˜95% B, at aflow rate of 1 ml/min. The effluent was monitored with a UV-visibledetector.

The fractions at 25˜30 min were collected and concentrated to yieldCompound 1, 4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enone, a productwith the appearance of light yellow oil. The molecular formula,molecular weight and melting point of 4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6,10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enone are C₂₄H₃₈O₄,390, and 48° C. to 52° C., respectively. NMR spectra of the compoundshowed that ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃) δ(ppm)=1.51, 1.67, 1.71, 1.75, 1.94, 2.03,2.07, 2.22, 2.25, 3.68, 4.05, 5.07, and 5.14; ¹³C-NMR (CDCl₃)δ(ppm)=12.31, 16.1, 16.12, 17.67, 25.67, 26.44, 26.74, 27.00, 39.71,39.81, 4.027, 43.34, 59.22, 60.59, 120.97, 123.84, 124.30, 131.32,135.35, 135.92, 138.05, 160.45, and 197.12.

The fractions collected at 21.2 to 21.4 min were collected andconcentrated to yield compound 5, a product of pale yellow liquid.Compound 5 was analyzed to be4-hydroxy-5-(11-hydroxy-3,7,11-trimethyldodeca-2,6-dienyl)-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methylcyclohex-2-enonewith molecular weight of 408 (Molecular formula: C₂₄H₄₀O₅). ¹H-NMR(CDCl₃) δ (ppm)=1.21, 1.36, 1.67, 1.71, 1.75, 1.94, 2.03, 2.07, 2.22,2.25, 3.68, 4.05, 5.71 and 5.56.

¹³C-NMR (CDCl₃) δ(ppm): 12.31, 16.1, 16.12, 17.67, 25.67, 26.44, 26.74,27.00, 30.10, 40.27, 43.34, 59.22, 60.59, 71.8, 120.97, 123.84, 124.30,131.32, 134.61, 135.92, 138.05, 160.45, and 197.11.

Compound 54-hydroxy-5-(11-hydroxy-3,7,11-trimethyldodeca-2,6-dienyl)-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methylcyclohex-2-enone

The fractions collected at 23.7 to 24.0 min were collected andconcentrated to yield compound 7, a product of pale yellow liquid.Compound 7 was analyzed to be4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-5-(11-methoxy-3,7,11-trimethyldodeca-2,6-dienyl)-6-methylcyclohex-2-enonewith molecular weight of 422 (C₂₅H₄₂O₅). ¹H-NMR (CDCl₃) δ (ppm)=1.21,1.36, 1.71, 1.75, 1.94, 2.03, 2.07, 2.22, 2.25, 3.24, 3.68, 4.05, 5.12,5.50, and 5.61. ¹³C-NMR (CDCl₃) δ(ppm): 12.31, 16.1, 16.12, 17.67,24.44, 26.44, 26.74, 27.00, 37.81, 39.81, 40.27, 43.34, 49.00, 59.22,60.59, 120.97, 123.84, 124.30, 135.92, 138.05, 160.45 and 197.12.

Compound 74-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-5-(11-methoxy-3,7,11-trimethyldodeca-2,6-dienyl)-6-methylcyclohex-2-enone

Compound 6, a metabolite of Compound 1, was obtained from urine samplesof rats fed with Compound 1 in the animal study. Compound 6 wasdetermined to be 4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5-(3-methyl-2-hexenoicacid)cyclohex-2-enone with molecular weight of 312 (C₁₆H₂₄O₆). Compound4 which was determined as3,4-dihydroxy-2-methoxy-6-methyl-5-(3,7,11-trimethyldodeca-2,6,10-trienyl)cyclohex-2-enone(molecular weight of 376, C₂₃H₃₆O₄), was obtained when Compound 1 wasunder the condition of above 40° C. for 6 hours.

Alternatively, the exemplary compounds may be prepared from4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methylcyclohexa-2,5-dienone, or the like.Similarly, other cyclohexenone compounds having the structure

are isolated from Antrodia camphorate or prepared synthetically orsemi-synthetically from the suitable starting materials. An ordinaryperson skilled in the art would readily utilize appropriate conditionsfor such synthesis.

Example 2 Reduction of Fatty Liver Condition by Compound 1(4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6-10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enone)

In order to simulate an unhealthy diet tendency in humans, such asexcess consumption of high caloric food, the example constructs ananimal model using rats fed a high fat diet to evaluate the effects ofchronic liver injury. Thereafter, the effects can be revealed throughbiochemical assays to prove the fatty liver reduction of exemplarycompounds provided herein such as Compound1,4-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-6-methyl-5(3,7,11-trimethyl-dodeca-2,6-10-trienyl)-cyclohex-2-enone(the test compound).

The assay simulates liver disease caused by a high fat diet through a“Metabolic Syndrome” model. That is, the model is different fromconventional chemical induced models caused by toxic components such asCCl₄. This model is distinguishable from the models caused by virus oralcohol.

The establishment of a long term high-fat diet is described as follows:First, the C57BL/6 mice were obtained from Charles River LaboratoriesJapan (Kanagawa, Japan). Animals were housed underspecific-pathogen-free (SPF) conditions. The liver injury was developedin 18 male mice by subcutaneous injection of Streptozotocin (STZ) 2 daysafter birth (day 2). After 4 weeks, a high-fat commercial rodent diet adlibitum (CLEA JAPAN) were supplied. These mice were randomized into 3groups before the treatment. The test compound was administered in avolume of 10 ml/kg twice a day for three weeks. In the control group(group A), six rats were fed with vehicle (corn oil from Sigma ChemicalCo.) via intubation. Six mice in group B were orally administeredvehicle and the test compound at a dose of 48 mg/kg twice a day (96mg/kg per day). Table 1 summarizes the study timetable.

TABLE 1 The timetable of the study Time Process Day 0 Birth Day 2 STZtreatment Day 28 Feeding high fat diet Day 62 Randomization Day 63-Day76 Test compound administration Day 77 Sacrifice

Table 2 summarizes the treatment schedule.

TABLE 2 Experimental groups with the substances and dosages fed No.Dosage Volume Group mice Test substance (mg/kg) (ml/kg) Regiments A 6Vehicle control — 10 Oral, twice a day, 9-11 weeks B 6 The test 48compound

Histology Analysis

(1) HE Staining The HE staining method is performed as follows: Liverslices are cut from the livers' left side, embedded in Tissue-Tek® OCT™Compounds (Sakura Finetek, Japan), snap frozen in liquid nitrogen, andstored at −80° C. 5 μm sections are cut, air-dried, fixed in acetone,air dried again and finally washed with phosphate buffered saline (PBS).Then, in the hematoxylin and eosin staining method, liver sections willbe prefixed in a Bouin solution (formalin-acetic acid) for one week andthen stained with Lillie-Mayer's Hematoxylin (Muto Pure Chemicals,Japan) and eosin solution (Wako, Japan) to visualize the lipiddeposition, inflammations, cell necrosis and fibrosis, or stained withMasson's trichromic solution to visualize extra cellular matrix andcollagen fibers of liver fibrosis development.

(2) Sirius Red Staining The Sirius Red staining method is performed asfollows: Liver slices are cut from the livers' left side, embedded inTissue-Tek® OCT™ Compounds (Sakura Finetek, Japan), snap frozen inliquid nitrogen, and stored at −80° C. 5 μm an sections are cut,air-dried, fixed in acetone, air dried again and finally washed withphosphate buffered saline (PBS). Then, liver sections are stained with aPicro-Sirius Red Solution (Waldeck GmbH & KG, Germany) to observecollagen deposition.

(3) Immunohistochemistry of Collagen Type 3. The immunohistochemistryassay for collagen Type 3 is performed as follows: Liver slices are cutfrom the livers' left side, embedded in Tissue-Tek® OCT™ Compounds(Sakura Finetek, Japan), snap frozen in liquid nitrogen, and stored at−80° C. 5 μm an sections are cut, air-dried, fixed in acetone, air driedagain and finally washed with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Forimmunohistochemistry, endogenous peroxidase activity will be blocked byusing 0.03% H₂O₂ for 5 minutes, followed by incubation with Block Ace(Dainippon Sumitomo Pharm, Japan) for 10 minutes. The sections will beincubated with the optimal dilution of anti-Type 3 collagen antibodyovernight at 4° C. After incubation with an appropriate secondaryantibody, the substrate reactions are performed using DAB/H₂O₂ solution(Nichirei, Japan).

Whole Blood and Plasma Biochemistry

(1) Whole Blood Glucose. Blood samples were collected in heparinizedsyringes (Novo-Heparin 5,000 units/5 ml, Mochida Pharmaceutical, Japan)by cardiac puncture, kept on ice and centrifuged at 1,000×g at 4° C. for15 minutes. The supernatant was collected and stored at −80° C. untiluse. Blood glucose was measured in whole blood samples using G Checker(Sanko Junyaku Co. Ltd., Japan).

(2) Plasma Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine aminotransferase(ALT). The detection of plasma AST and ALT are performed as follows:Blood samples were collected in heparinized syringes (Novo-Heparin 5,000units/5 ml, Mochida Pharmaceutical, Japan) by cardiac puncture and kepton ice then centrifuged at 1,000×g at 4° C. for 15 minutes. Thesupernatant was collected and stored at −80° C. until use. AST, ALTlevels were measured by FUJI DRY CHEM 7000 (Fuji Film, Japan).

Fatty Liver Disease Caused by Non-Chemical Injury

FIG. 1 to FIG. 7 have proved that the exemplary compound extracted fromA. camphorate (Compound 1) effectively decreases the extent of fattyliver disease caused by non-chemical injury. The decrease is assessed byevaluating the extent of liver injuries of fat deposition byhistological analyses such as HE staining, Sirius red staining andcollagen immunostaining, and further by plasma biochemical marker suchas blood glucose, plasma triglyceride, plasma ALT and plasma AST.

HE staining reveals the morphology of hepatic cells under inflammatorycell infiltration, and macro- and micro-vesicular fat deposition. FIG.1(A-D) shows the representative photomicrographs of HE-stained sectionsof livers of Group A and Group B, wherein FIGS. 1(A) and 1(C) show anenlargement ratio of 50× and FIGS. 1(B) and 1(D) show an enlargementratio of 200×. As shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B), the Group A (vehicle)diagrams revealed infiltration of inflammatory cells, macro- and microvesicular fat deposition, proliferated bile ducts and hepato-cellularballooning in the liver sections. As shown in FIGS. 1(C) and 1(D), groupB (the test compound, Compound 1) treatment tended to decrease theinfiltration of inflammatory cells and also tended to decrease themacro-vesicular fat deposition compared to Group A.

Sirius Red Staining is utilized to detect collagen deposition. FIG. 2shows the representative photomicrographs of Sirius-red staining oflivers of Group A and Group B, wherein FIGS. 2(A) and 2(C) show anenlargement ratio of 50× and FIGS. 2(B) and 2(D) show an enlargementratio of 200×. As shown in FIGS. 2(A) and 2(B), in group A, Sirius redstaining demonstrates collagen deposition around central veins, bileducts and degenerative hepatocytes. As shown in FIGS. 2(C) and 2(D), inGroup B (the test compound, Compound 1) treatment, the collagendeposition around the central veins and the bile ducts was reduced.

Collagen Type 3 staining is used to detect the distribution of collagenfibers. FIG. 3 shows the representative photomicrographs of collagenType 3-immunostained sections of livers of Group A and Group B, whereinFIGS. 3(A) and 3(C) show an enlargement ratio of 50× and FIGS. 3(B) and3(D) show an enlargement ratio of 400×. As shown in FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B),Collagen Type 3 staining shows accumulation of collagen fibers in thesinusoidal area and around bile ducts and central veins in the Vehiclecontrol group A. As shown in FIGS. 3(C) and 3(D), the Group B (the testcompound, Compound 1) treatment tended to reduce the thickness and/orthe length of the collagen fibers in the sinusoidal area.

FIG. 4 shows the diagram of the whole blood glucose concentration(mg/dL) of Group A and Group B. As shown in FIG. 4, Group B treatment(the test compound, Compound 1) showed a decrease in the whole bloodglucose level compared to the results of Group A treatment (Group A:636±137 mg/dL, Group B: 580±122 mg/dL).

FIG. 5 shows the diagram of the plasma triglyceride (TG) concentration(mg/dL) of Group A and Group B. As shown in FIG. 5, Group B treatment(the test compound, Compound 1) showed a significant decrease in theplasma TG compared to the results of Group A treatment (Group A: 643±402mg/dL, Group B: 229±144 mg/dL).

The aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and the alanine aminotransferase(ALT) are important enzymes in the amino acid synthesis for the humanorgans such as liver, heart, muscles, etc. AST and ALT are commonlymeasured clinically as a part of a diagnostic evaluation ofhepatocellular injury, to determine liver health. These enzymes' contentin serum is low under normal conditions. Significantly elevated levelsof AST and ALT often suggest the existence of liver injury. FIG. 6 andFIG. 7 show diagrams of plasma AST and plasma ALT concentration (U/dL)for Group A and Group B, respectively. As shown in FIG. 6, Group B (thetest compound, Compound 1) treatment seems to slightly reduce the plasmaAST level compared to Group A (vehicle) treatment (Group A: 202±177 U/L,Group B: 141±35 U/L). As shown in FIG. 7, Group B (the test compound,Compound 1) treatment seems to slightly reduce the plasma ALT levelcompared to Group A (vehicle) treatment (Group A: 64±64 U/L, Group B:34±10 U/L).

In summary, the test compound treatment decreased the plasma TG levels,tending to inhibit blood glucose levels, and slightly decreased theplasma AST and ALT. The test compound treatment also decreased theinfiltration of inflammatory cells and fat deposition in the liverlobule. Moreover, the test compound tended to inhibit collagendeposition, shown in both Sirius red staining and collagen Type 3staining, suggesting that the test compound has an anti-fibrotic effecton liver fibrosis steatohepatitis.

Fibrosis of Steatohepatitis Caused by Non-Chemical Injury

FIG. 8 to FIG. 14 show that the test compound, Compound 1 effectivelydecrease fibrosis of steatohepatitis liver cells induced by non-chemicalinjury. The decrease is assessed by evaluating the extent of liverinjuries in liver fibrosis by histological analyses such as HE staining,Sirius red staining and collagen immunostaining, and further by plasmabiochemical marker such as blood glucose, plasma alanineaminotransferase and plasma aspartate aminotransferase.

FIG. 8 shows the representative photomicrographs of HE-stained sectionsof livers of Group A and Group B, wherein FIGS. 8(A) and 8(C) show anenlargement ratio of 50×, and FIGS. 8(B) and 8(D) show an enlargementratio of 200×. As shown in FIGS. 8(A) and 8(B), the Group A (vehicle)diagrams reveal infiltration of inflammatory cells, macro- and microvesicular fat deposition, proliferated bile ducts, and hepatocellularballooning in the liver sections. As shown in FIGS. 8(C) and 8(D), groupB (the test compound, Compound 1) treatment tended to decrease themacro-vesicular fat deposition compared to Group A.

FIG. 9 shows the representative photomicrographs of Sirius-red stainingof livers of Group A and Group B, wherein FIGS. 9(A) and 9(C) show anenlargement ratio of 50×, and FIGS. 9(B) and 9(D) show an enlargementratio of 200×. As shown in FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B), in Group A, Sirius redstaining demonstrates collagen deposition around central veins, bileducts and degenerative hepatocytes. In Group A treatment,central-to-central bridging fibrosis is observed, showing seriousfibrosis in liver cells. As shown in FIGS. 9(C) and 9(D), in Group B(the test compound, Compound 1) treatment, the collagen depositionaround the central veins and the bile ducts was reduced.

FIG. 10 shows the representative photomicrographs of collagen Type3-immunostained sections of livers of Group A and Group B, wherein FIGS.10(A) and 10(C) show an enlargement ratio of 50×, and FIGS. 10(B) and10(D) show an enlargement ratio of 400×. As shown in FIGS. 10(A) and10(B), Collagen Type 3 staining shows accumulation of collagen fibers inthe sinusoidal area, and around bile ducts and central veins in theVehicle control Group A. As shown in FIGS. 10(C) and 10(D), the Group B(the test compound, Compound 1) treatment tended to reduce the thicknessand/or the length of the collagen fibers in the sinusoidal area.

FIG. 11 shows the diagram of the whole blood glucose concentration(mg/dL) of Group A and Group B. As shown in FIG. 11, Group B treatment(the test compound, Compound 1) showed a significant decrease in thewhole blood glucose level compared to the results of Group A treatment(Group A: 728±109 mg/dL, Group B: 566±65 mg/dL).

FIG. 12 shows the diagram of the plasma triglyceride (TG) concentration(mg/dL) of Group A and Group B. As shown in FIG. 12, Group B treatment(the test compound, Compound 1) showed a slight decrease in the plasmaTG compared to the results of Group A treatment (Group A: 758±877 mg/dL,Group B: 704±450 mg/dL).

FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, respectively show diagrams of plasma AST and plasmaALT concentration (U/dL) for Group A and Group B. In FIG. 13, Group B(the test compound, Compound 1) treatment slightly increase the plasmaAST level compared to Group A (vehicle) treatment, but the change is notsignificant (Group A: 143±42 U/L, Group B: 167±87 U/L). As shown in FIG.14, Group B (the test compound, Compound 1) treatment reduces the plasmaALT level compared to Group A (vehicle) treatment (Group A: 47±22 U/L,Group B: 38±11 U/L).

In summary, the treatment with the test compound (e.g., Compound 1)decreased the blood glucose levels, the plasma TG levels, and tends todecrease the fat deposition in the liver lobule and the ALT levels,suggesting that the cyclohexenone compounds provided herein have anameliorating effect on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and aprotective effect on liver injury caused by a high-fat diet. Also, theexemplary cyclohexenone compound (e.g., Compound 1) tended to inhibitcollagen deposition, shown in both Sirus red staining and collagen Type3 staining, showing that the cyclohexenone compounds provided hereinhave an anti-fibrotic effect on liver steatohepatitis.

Taken together, the present invention successfully demonstrated that thetest compound treatment effectively decrease the extents of fatty liverdisease and liver fibrosis induced by metabolic syndrome, especiallyfrom high-fat diet treatment.

Example 3 Reduction of Fatty Liver Condition by the CompositionComprising Compound 1 and Ergosterol

Except for the testing groups and treatment schedule, the materials andprocesses of Metabolic Syndrome” model, Histology analysis, Whole bloodand plasma biochemistry and Fatty Liver Disease Caused by Non-ChemicalInjury are similar to those stated in Example 2.

In control group (group A), six rats were fed with vehicle (corn oilfrom Sigma chemical co.) by means of stomach tubes. Six rats in group Bwere orally administered vehicle and the test compound (Compound 1) at adose of 48 mg/kg twice a day (96 mg/kg per day) and ergosterol at a doseof 12 mg/kg twice a day (24 mg/kg per day). Six mice in group C wereorally administered vehicle and the test compound (Compound 1) at a doseof 48 mg/kg twice a day (96 mg/kg per day).

Table 1 below shows the study timetable summary.

TABLE 1 The timetable of the study Time Process Day 0 Birth Day 2 STZtreatment Day 28 Feeding high fat diet Day 62 Randomization Day 63-Day76 Test substance administration Day 77 Sacrifice

Table 2 shows the treatment schedule.

TABLE 2 Experimental groups with the substances they were fed with andtheir dosages No. Dosage Volume Group mice Test substance (mg/kg)(ml/kg) Regiments A 6 Vehicle control — 10 Oral, twice a day, B 6 Thetest 48 9-11 weeks compound Ergosterol 12 C 6 The test 48 compound

HE Staining

FIG. 15 shows the representative photomicrographs of HE-stained sectionsof livers from Group A to Group C, wherein FIG. 15(A), 15(C), 15(E) showan enlargement ratio of 50× and FIGS. 15(B), 15(D), 15(F) show anenlargement ratio of 200×. As shown in FIGS. 15(A) and 15(B), the GroupA figures revealed infiltration of inflammatory cells, macro- and microvesicular fat deposition, proliferated bile ducts and hepatocellularballooning in the liver sections. As shown in FIGS. 15(C) and 15(D),treatment with combination of the test compound (Compound 1) andergosterol decreased the macro vesicular fat deposition and theinfiltration of inflammatory cells. The number of mitotic figures inhepatocytes is higher in group B compared to the group A. As shown inFIGS. 15(E) and 15(F), the treatment with the test compound alone tendedto decrease the macro vesicular fat deposition but did not affect theinfiltration of inflammatory cells.

From FIG. 15, it is recognized that the treatment with the test compound(Compound 1) and ergosterol (Group B) have the ability of reducing themacro vesicular fat deposition. Compared to the treatment with the testcompound alone (Group C), the treatment with the test compound andergosterol (Group B) further inhibit the inflammatory cellsinfiltration, thereby showing better anti-inflammatory effects withrespect to Group C.

Sirius Red Staining

FIG. 16 shows the representative photomicrographs of Sirius-red stainedof livers from Group A to Group C, wherein FIGS. 16(A), 16(C), 16(E)show an enlargement ratio of 50× and FIGS. 16(B), 16(D), 16(F) show anenlargement ratio of 200×. As shown in FIGS. 16(A) and 16(B), in groupA, Sirius red staining show collagen deposition around central veins,bile ducts and degenerative hepatocytes, showing central-to-centralbridging fibrosis and indicating serious fibrosis steatohepatitis. Asshown in FIGS. 16(C) and 16(D), the treatment with the combination ofthe test compound (Compound 1) and ergosterol tended to decrease thecollagen deposition. As shown in FIGS. 16(E) and 16(F), thecyclohexenone alone treatment tended only slightly to decrease thecollagen deposition compared to that in the control group.

In summary, both the treatments with the cyclohexeone compound providedherein (e.g., Compound 1) and ergosterol treatment (Group B) and thetreatment with the test compound alone (Group C) tend to inhibitcollagen deposition, and thus prevent liver fibrosis. More specifically,the treatment with the combination of the cyclohexenone compoundprovided herein (e.g., Compound 1) and ergosterol provides a betteranti-liver-fibrosis ability compared to the treatment with the testcompound alone.

Immunohistochemistry of Collagen Type 3

FIG. 17 shows the representative photomicrographs of collagen Type3-immunostained sections of livers from Group A to Group C, whereinFIGS. 17(A), 17(C), 17(E) show an enlargement ratio of 100× and FIGS.17(B), 17(D), 17(F) show an enlargement ratio of 400×. As shown in FIGS.17(A) and 17(B), Collagen Type 3 staining shows accumulation of collagenfibers in the sinusoidal area and around bile ducts and central veins inthe Vehicle control group. As shown in FIGS. 17(C), 17(D), 17(E) and17(F), the combination of cyclohexenone (e.g., Compound 1) andergosterol treatment and the cyclohexenone alone treatment tended toreduce the collagen deposition proved by the decrease of the thicknessof the collagen fibers in the sinusoidal area, indicating theiranti-fibrosis ability.

Example 4 Study of Compound 1 in Patients with Diabetes and PresumedNAFLD

The primary objectives of this study are to assess, in patients withType 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and presumed nonalcoholic fatty liverdisease (NAFLD), the following:

-   The safety and tolerability of multiple doses of Compound 1;-   The effects of 2 dose levels (50 mg and 100 mg) of Compound 1 on    insulin resistance and glucose homeostasis;-   Effects of Compound 1 on hepatocellular function as measured by    assessment of liver enzymes and biochemical markers of hepatic and    metabolic function and inflammation.

Study Type: Interventional

Study Design: Allocation: Randomized Endpoint Classification:Safety/Efficacy Study Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment Masking:Double Blind (Subject, Investigator) Primary Purpose Treatment PrimaryOutcome Measures:

Insulin Resistance and Glucose Homeostasis [Time Frame: baseline and 6weeks] [Designated as safety issue: No]

The primary objective of assessing changes in insulin resistance andglucose homeostasis will be attained by performing a euglycemic clampprocedure at baseline (Day 0) and at the end of 6 weeks of treatment(Day 43).

Secondary Outcome Measures:

Hepatocellular Function [Time Frame: baseline and 6 weeks] [Designatedas safety issue: Yes]

Hepatocellular function as measured by assessment of liver enzymes andbiochemical markers of hepatic and metabolic function

Arms Assigned Interventions Active Comparator: 50 mg Drug: Compound 1Compound 1 50 mg by mouth once daily, 100 mg by mouth once daily ActiveComparator: 100 mg Drug: Compound 1 Compound 1 100 mg by mouth oncedaily, 200 mg by mouth once daily Placebo Comparator: Placebo Drug:Placebo Placebo

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This is a multi-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled,multiple-dose, parallel-group study. Three (3) cohorts of 12 patientseach will receive either placebo, 50 mg Compound 1, or 100 mg Compound 1by mouth daily for 6 weeks.

The primary objective of assessing changes in insulin resistance andglucose homeostasis will be attained by performing a euglycemic clampprocedure at baseline (Day 0) and at the end of 6 weeks of treatment(Day 43). Other endpoints will be evaluated by monitoring adverseexperiences; vital signs; clinical laboratory values; plasma drug andmetabolite concentrations; and general health and well-being.

Eligibility

Ages Eligible for Study: 18 Years to 75 Years

Genders Eligible for Study: Both Accepts Healthy Volunteers: NoInclusion Criteria:

Type 2 diabetes, defined by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), asone of the following criteria:

Symptoms of diabetes plus casual plasma glucose concentration >200 mg/dL(11.1 mmol/L) or Fasting plasma glucose >126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or2-hour post-load glucose >200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) during a 75 g oralglucose tolerance test (GTT).

Presumed NAFLD, defined by one of the following criteria:

-   Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)≧47 U/L for females and ≧56 U/L for    males-   Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)≧47 U/L for females and ≧60 U/L for    males-   Enlarged liver (demonstrated by ultrasound or other imaging    technique)-   Diagnostic histological findings shown on prior biopsy (in the last    5 years).

Exclusion Criteria:

Bilirubin >2×ULN

-   ALT >155 U/L for females and >185 U/L for males.-   AST >155 U/L for females and >200 U/L for males.-   Patients taking any antidiabetic medications, with the exception of    metformin and sulfonylureas. If the HbA1c is <11%, patients may be    enrolled who have been withdrawn from all other diabetic medications    as specified in the protocol, at the discretion of the Principal    Investigator.

Example 5 Oral Formulation

To prepare a pharmaceutical composition for oral delivery, 100 mg of anexemplary Compound 1 is mixed with 100 mg of corn oil. The mixture isincorporated into an oral dosage unit in a capsule, which is suitablefor oral administration.

In some instances, 100 mg of a compound described herein is mixed with750 mg of starch. The mixture is incorporated into an oral dosage unitfor, such as a hard gelatin capsule, which is suitable for oraladministration.

Example 6 Sublingual (Hard Lozenge) Formulation

To prepare a pharmaceutical composition for buccal delivery, such as ahard lozenge, mix 100 mg of a compound described herein, with 420 mg ofpowdered sugar mixed, with 1.6 mL of light corn syrup, 2.4 mL distilledwater, and 0.42 mL mint extract. The mixture is gently blended andpoured into a mold to form a lozenge suitable for buccal administration.

Example 7 Inhalation Composition

To prepare a pharmaceutical composition for inhalation delivery, 20 mgof a compound described herein is mixed with 50 mg of anhydrous citricacid and 100 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride solution. The mixture isincorporated into an inhalation delivery unit, such as a nebulizer,which is suitable for inhalation administration.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art thatsuch embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilledin the art without departing from the invention. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention describedherein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following claims define the scope of the invention and that methodsand structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby.

1. A method of treating, inhibiting and/or preventing fatty liverdisease in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering aneffective amount of a cyclohexenone compound of the following formula(I) to said patient,

wherein each of X and Y independently is oxygen, NR₅ or sulfur; R is ahydrogen or C(═O)C₁-C₈alkyl; each of R₁, R₂ and R₃ independently is ahydrogen, methyl or (CH₂)_(m)—CH₃; R₄ is NR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅,C(═O)R₅, C(═O)NR₅R₆, halogen, 5 or 6-membered lactone, C₁-C₈alkyl,C₂-C₈alkenyl, C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, glucosyl, wherein the 5 or 6-memberedlactone, C₁-C₈alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl, C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, and glucosyl areoptionally substituted with one or more substituents selected fromNR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅, C(═O)R₅, C(═O)NR₅R₆, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl, C₂-C₈ alkynyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, and C₁-C₈ haloalkyl; each ofR₅ and R₆ is independently a hydrogen or C₁-C₈alkyl; R₇ is a C₁-C₈alkyl,OR₅ or NR₅R₆; m=1-12; and n=1-12; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt,metabolite, solvate or prodrug thereof.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the cyclohexenone compound is isolated from the organic solventextracts of Antrodia camphorate.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein R isa hydrogen, C(═O)C₃H₈, C(═O)C₂H₅, or C(═O)CH₃.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein R₁ is a hydrogen or methyl.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein R₂is a hydrogen, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, pentyl or hexyl.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein R₄ is halogen, NH₂, NHCH₃, N(CH₃)₂, OCH₃,OC₂H₅, C(═O)CH₃, C(═O)C₂H₅, C(═O)OCH₃, C(═O)OC₂H₅, C(═O)NHCH₃,C(═O)NHC₂H₅, C(═O)NH₂, OC(═O)CH₃, OC(═O)C₂H₅, OC(═O)OCH₃, OC(═O)OC₂H₅,OC(═O)NHCH₃, OC(═O)NHC₂H₅, or OC(═O)NH₂.
 7. The method of claim 1,wherein R₄ is C₂H₅C(CH₃)₂OH, C₂H₅C(CH₃)₂OCH₃, CH₂COOH, C₂H₅COOH, CH₂OH,C₂H₅OH, CH₂Ph, C₂H₅Ph, CH₂CH═C(CH₃)(CHO), CH₂CH═C(CH₃)(C(═O)CH₃), 5 or6-membered lactone, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl, C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, andglucosyl, wherein 5 or 6-membered lactone, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₂-C₈alkenyl,C₂-C₈alkynyl, aryl, and glucosyl are optionally substituted with one ormore substituents selected from NR₅R₆, OR₅, OC(═O)R₇, C(═O)OR₅, C(═O)R₅,C(═O)NR₅R₆, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₂-C₈ alkynyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl,and C₁-C₈ haloalkyl.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein R₄ isCH₂CH═C(CH₃)₂.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the compound is


10. The method of claim 1, wherein the cyclohexenone compound isadministered with a second ingredient.
 11. The method of claim 10,wherein the second ingredient is ergosterol.
 12. The method of claim 11,wherein the amounts of the cyclohexenone compound in combination withergosterol range from 50% (w/w) to 90% (w/w) and 50% (w/w) to 10% (w/w),respectively.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the fatty liver diseaseis the primary fatty liver disease or the secondary fatty liver disease.14. The method of claim 13, wherein the primary fatty liver disease isNAFLD or NASH.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the secondary fattyliver disease is alcohol liver disease, fatty liver associated withchronic hepatitis infection, total parental nutrition (TPN), Reye'sSyndrome, gastrointestinal disorders, or gastroparesis and irritablebowel (IBS) disorders.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the fattyliver disease is cirrhosis or fibrosis.
 17. The method of claim 1,wherein the cyclohexenone compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, metabolite, solvate or prodrug thereof, is administered orally,parenterally or intravenously.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein thecyclohexenone compound, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt,metabolite, solvate or prodrug thereof, is administered orally.